About Us
A true family run business with a passion for acoustic pianos
John J. Thompson
Sussex Pianos Ltd was founded by John in 1995. Trained as a tuner technician, having completed 3 years at Newark Sherwood College studying Piano Tuning, Repairs and Restoration, gaining the college diploma. John is qualified with City & Guilds in all aspects of the piano,
including tuning, toning and restoration.
A member of the Piano Tuners Association. To be a member of the PTA, John had to be examined on his tuning and repairs. John tunes pianos for many local organisations & companies. This also includes Glyndebourne Opera House near Lewes, looking after several pianos on a regular basis which includes the stage grands for all important performances. John undertakes many contracts for schools and recording studios, and pianos for clients in the Sussex & Kent area.
John Thompson is a registered Precision Touch Design Installer,
the first installer in the UK in 2013. Trained to analyse grand and upright action weights and ratios and provide data to the customer about problems with touch weight and tone. This data can be used to provide a better design for the action and John can install this in to the grand/upright action design. Read more information on Precision Touch Design here.
John has received training from Wessell, Nickel & Gross and is fully certified and licensed to install and service their advanced piano action products.
John has trained at Bechstein in Germany on many courses run by the factory. Being trained by Bechsteins’s highly trained technicians.
John is a Renner Recognised Technician in Replacement action components. Receiving training at the Germany factory on Renner parts and the types available. Conversions & action replacement.
John W. Thompson
John senior, John’s Dad, is the business’s resident handyman and piano delivery person. John de-strings, strips and prepares pianos for French-polishing. John makes sure that major jobs are well prepared and delivered on time.
Keith
Our expert finisher, and shows that French-polishing is a true art! Keith has the experience to tackle any job, if you want a pink piano or the best black finish, he will accomplish it. Keith has over 35 years experience working with antiques in top London hotels and the higher end American market, as well as being part of the restoration teams working in Royal houses.
Alex Bechade
Alex has trained all over the world. Has a vast amount of experience and skill. This included training at Steinway.
Jean Thompson
John’s Mum, is always on the end of the phone to answer queries or book appointments. Jean organises Johns hectic daily schedule and helps to contact customers.
Lucy Thompson
John’s wife. Lucy handles the finances and book keeping of the business. Lucy’s on hand to help customers via email.
